My Bernina Bernette 80e has the speed control and it's a sliding bar on the front too. It looks more impressive than it really is. It's size makes you think you should have a lot of control over the speed, but not really. I really use it if I have the kids around while I am sewing. It keeps them from accidentally stepping on my feet or the pedal and causing a runaway accident. I know Bernette was not the top of the line, but she wasn't super cheap either.
Speaking of which, Costco has a Brother sewing & quilting machine for about $170 right now. I don't know much about it, I was on a mission to get in & get out before the holiday weekend crazy shoppers came in. Even Hubby commented on the price. (Honey, instead of a second sewing machine, I'd like a stand mixer if you want to buy me appliance type gifts.) I bet you can check it out on line too.